It’s no surprise that composite and aluminum are now the most popular deck railing materials.
Durable, low maintenance, and available in a variety of colors and styles, both aluminum and composite railings make great long-term investments.
With simple installations and affordable prices, composite & aluminum railings have become a favorite solution for DIY homeowners or pro contractors alike.
But, there are a few critical differences to understand before making a decision, which we’ll detail in this article.
Aluminum
- Sleek, modern appearance
- Durable powder-coated finish is UV- and rust-resistant
- Lasts 15 to 20+ years
- Withstands extremely cold winter temperatures
- Aluminum is lightweight, making it easy to move around, cut, and install
- Most affordable solution
Composite
- Mimics the look of natural wood
- Uses a blend of wood and plastics (often recycled)
- Lasts 25+ years
- Can scratch, dent & stain
- More expensive solution
Next, let’s look at the pros & cons of composite vs powder-coated aluminum deck railings to help you make the best investment for your home.
Material Comparison: Composite vs Powder-Coated Aluminum
Composite railing is made by blending plastic pellets and wood fibers – often using recycled materials – then force the mixture through an extruder to shape the material into the desired profile.
To achieve customized colors and textures, manufacturers mix in additives like colorants, UV stabilizers, and bonding agents. This process, known as coextrusion, creates a consistent product with a protective top layer.
Powder-coated aluminum production begins with extruding aluminum billets through a die to achieve the desired profile, followed by cooling and cutting. The aluminum sections are then cleaned and prepped to remove contaminants, enhancing coating adhesion. A dry powder is electrostatically applied to the surfaces, and the coated pieces are cured in an oven to create a smooth, durable finish.
- Learn more about the powder coating process
Style & Aesthetic Appeal
The style and aesthetics of your deck railings play a big role in the overall look and feel of your outdoor space.
Here’s a close look at how each material stands out:
Aesthetics & Design
Aluminum railings come in a variety of contemporary and modern designs. Picket railings are the most popular option, available with thick or thin picket widths, to match your desired aesthetic.
Aluminum railings are powder-coated, allowing for customized colors and finishes that last for decades.
Composite railings shine in their versatility and ability to mimic natural wood. Available in a wide range of colors and textures, composite lets you match any design preference to achieve your vision – whether you’re aiming for a traditional look or a more customized aesthetic.
Views & Privacy
If you’re fortunate enough to have a deck with a breathtaking view, choosing railings with thin balusters is key. Aluminum railings feature slim 5/8″ pickets that blend seamlessly into the background, ensuring the view remains the star. Composite options with similar slim profiles also work well to keep the focus on the scenery.
- For the ultimate in views & safety, Scenic Glass railings by DekSmart provide clear, unobstructed views backed by the safety of 10mm tempered glass panels and durable powder-coated aluminum posts.
For those seeking more privacy, railings with thicker posts and larger 1 1/2″balusters are the way to go. Both aluminum and composite railings can be designed to prioritize privacy, with substantial components that help create a secluded and intimate deck space. Whether it’s for relaxing away from prying eyes or creating a cozy nook, these railings can offer the privacy you desire.
- Create your own private outdoor space – free from wind, noise, and curious glances – with DekSmart’s Wind Walls & Privacy Screens.
Customization & Color Options
Powder-coated finishes are durable and enhance the sleek appearance of aluminum railings.
While aluminum railings typically have fewer color choices than composite – typically black, white, and shades of brown – leading railing manufacturers like DekSmart & Century Aluminum Railings allow you to create customized colors to suit any design style.
Composite railings also stand out with a wide range of color options to complement your deck and your home’s aesthetic. With a mock wood finish, composite railings offer a more traditional appeal that is perfect for those who want a classic look without the maintenance hassles of real wood.
Installation Efficiency
When it comes to installation, aluminum and composite railings offer distinct experiences.
Composite railings are heavier and typically require precise cutting and assembly, which can make the process more complex. While they come with pre-drilled components to aid in assembly, the need for exact measurements often means professional installation is advisable for the best results.
In contrast, aluminum railings are lightweight and much easier to handle, making them a favorite for DIY enthusiasts. Some railing kits come with pre-fabricated panels that allow for a rapid and simple installation. Aluminum railings can also be cut on-site with a mitre saw, providing flexibility and speeding up the installation process.
Maintenance & Upkeep
Low maintenance is one of the primary appeals of both composite and aluminum railings. Composite and aluminum railings are both resistant to rust, corrosion, mold, and mildew.
Unlike wood or wrought iron railings, no sanding, staining, painting, or sealing is needed to keep aluminum and composite railings in prime condition. All that’s required is a light cleaning with soap and water or an occasional power washing to remove environmental contaminants.
While composite doesn’t have the hardness of aluminum, it is resistant to rot, decay, and insects. Proper maintenance can ensure a lifespan of 20-25 years or more, depending on the quality.
Lifespan & Durability
Aluminum is a harder material than composite, providing better protection against scratches and dents. Unlike composite, aluminum can withstand extremely cold winter temperatures without becoming brittle.
With proper care, aluminum railings can last a lifetime. At DekSmart, we offer a 20-year limited warranty on our aluminum railings products.
Composite railings can vary in quality, depending on the brand. Some premium composites are engineered to withstand extreme weather conditions better than others.
Quality composite lasts around 20-25 years, with some manufacturers offering performance warranties for residential uses up to 50 years.
Cost
Aluminum railing systems typically fall within the range of $40 to $55 per linear foot, making them a mid-range option in terms of upfront expenses.
What makes aluminum railings particularly appealing is their durability and minimal maintenance requirements, potentially resulting in lower lifetime costs compared to other materials.
Composite railings typically cost $30 to $55 per linear foot, but may require more attention to maintain their appearance over time.
The overall price can vary depending on the complexity of the design and whether you hire a contractor or DIY. Aluminum’s lightweight nature can sometimes reduce installation costs.
Environmental Impact
Aluminum railings are celebrated for being infinitely recyclable, making them an eco-friendly choice. While the production process for aluminum can be energy-intensive, it is far more efficient than the production processes for steel or wrought iron.
Composite railings are made from recycled materials such as wood scraps and thermoplastic resin, which minimizes the reliance on virgin materials while reducing waste.
With long-lasting durability, low maintenance requirements, and a diminished reliance on virgin materials, both composite and aluminum railings are a commendable choice for environmentally conscious homeowners.
Choosing the Perfect Deck Railing: Aluminum vs Composite
Composite and aluminum railings boast durability, low maintenance, and come in a wide range of styles and colors, making them the most popular deck railing choices on the market today.
Aluminum offers clean lines, scratch resistance, and ease of installation. If you prefer a sleek & modern aesthetic with the option of topless glass panels to maximize your views, aluminum railings are your best option.
Composite provides the timeless look of wood in a variety of colors and finishes, allowing you to create a cohesive look to match your wooden deck or siding.
Ultimately, whether you opt for the sleek lines of an aluminum deck railing or the natural appeal of composite deck railings, both choices offer enduring quality and style to enhance your deck for years to come.
Explore DekSmart Railings’ aluminum and glass railing options to enhance your deck today!
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